Friday, June 7, 2013

Uncle John’s Fruit House Winery & Cider Mill, located on US27 North in St. Johns, has earned a 3rd Place in The Royal Bath & West Show in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, England. This is the second consecutive year that Uncle John’s has been recognized at this event – noted as the world’s largest cider competition.

This competition dates back to 1895, in what North American’s would call a pro-am format – with professionals and amateurs competing side-by-side. This year’s judging received a record 518 entries, up from 498 in 2012. There were 16 different classes (categories) in the judging this year, with two of those dedicated solely to entries from outside the United Kingdom (and a total of 52 international entries). Uncle John’s was the only American cider honored in this year’s competition.

“Uncle John’s is very excited about earning this award,” says Mike Beck. “We work very hard to grow and source the best Michigan fruit to make a great cider. It is a testament to what good practices in your orchard can achieve.”

Russet Cider is a blend of many “russeted” apple varieties: Golden Russet, Roxburry Russet, Knobby Russet, Razor Russet and Hudson’s Golden Gem, to name a few. Russet Cider is dry and sparkling, fruit forward with an earthy/mineral finish, and 6.5% ABV. Earlier this year, Uncle John’s Russet received a Silver Medal in the “Old World” category at the 2013 Great Lakes Cider & Perry International Competition. It is available in limited distribution (bottle and draft) at the tasting room and a few selected locations around Michigan, Chicago and Portland, OR.

Centrally located in the state, Uncle John's Fruit House Winery mixes traditional agri-tourism with a Winery and Tasting Room. Uncle John's specializes in Fruit Wines, Hard Ciders and Perrys. Aside from the fruit wines, we also feature traditional grape varieties, as well as Apple Brandy and Vodka made from Apples. The winery and tasting room is housed in an 85-year-old restored fruit packing house and is located beside Uncle John’s Cider Mill, Pie Barn and Gift Shop. Uncle John’s is located at 8614 N. US 127, seven miles north of St. Johns and four miles south of US-127 and M-57 intersection.